7 Things You'd Never Know About Smart Car Key Programming
Vehicle Smart Key Technology The technology of smart keys in automobiles allows drivers to open and start their vehicle by simply pressing the door handle, or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows for many other adjustments like the position of the seat and internal temperature settings as well as mirror positioning. However, this could create security concerns. Security Smart keys are highly sophisticated computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles via one of the antennas built into the car to unlock doors and to start the engine. Smart key fobs, as opposed to conventional keys that emit the same frequency each time they're pulled, transmit encrypted signals which are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong. This makes it more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to spoof or intercept the signal and use your key to steal your vehicle. Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder which identifies the driver's keys. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also begins the engine by pressing the key. Additionally, some smart keys -such as those from BMW include individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the push of one button. They also come with the backup lock, which stops the vehicle from starting without the key. This technology can prevent drivers from locking their car, especially when they have to search their purse or backpack for keys in a parking space filled with strangers or on an area with high crime rates. Many systems also alert drivers when their keys are in danger of being depleted, though this feature differs by manufacturer. Convenience If you're in a hurry to get somewhere, the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as easy as possible. You can lock, unlock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to monitor charging or location as well as other information about your vehicle. The main benefit is that you can't accidentally get locked out. The key fob communicates to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it is within the range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This is a deterrent to thieves who would steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts. The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to ward off hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. The computer inside the vehicle reads the code and validates it prior to starting the engine. A majority of systems also have a backup mechanical system in the form of a key blade that's hidden to enhance the appearance of the. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can be able to detect keys used and adjust the car settings accordingly. For example, if you turn on the car holding the key fob in your hand the windows and sunroof open to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applicable when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that could be useful if you loan your vehicle to a novice driver. Battery Life If you're looking for a way to get more mileage out of your vehicle's smart key, or just want to make sure it won't die during a trip to the grocery store, you can activate an auto manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To do this you need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button. This will make it impossible for your smart key fob from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will dramatically extend its battery life. You can always restart the function by pressing both the unlock and lock button again. Certain smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys employ rolling codes to block the unauthorized access. The car's computer will check the code every millisecond after the smart key is introduced. BMW makes use of a Display Key with a small LCD color screen. This allows drivers to lock their cars, unlock them, and start them without taking the smart key from their pockets. Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery on your smart key fob should you be thinking of buying a car with a smart-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key and our mobile locksmiths will help you set it up so that your car can recognize it. Special Cases While smart keys are not secure against theft, they can help to deter thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes that prevent hackers, and when put in the ignition, the vehicle's computer can verify the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is currently utilized by luxury car brands. Another benefit is that many smart key systems will continue to function in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk or left it at an eatery or lost it during the trail. Certain systems will also notify the driver if the battery is depleted. smart key for cars have key covers specifically designed for smart keys that ensure that the fob is protected from harm.